The first warm nights lure many people outside. But with the summer temperatures, annoying insects also appear. Mosquitoes are particularly interested in human smells. They can be driven away with scents.

Mosquitoes don't like strong smells

Mosquitoes perceive breathing air

The annoying insects are considered nasal animals because they have a pronounced perception and can even perceive the exhaled carbon dioxide. You can feel the direction from which the seductive "scent" is coming and where the concentration is particularly high. This attractant works for miles. The safest way to keep mosquitoes out of your home is to use fly screens on windows and doors.

Sweat attracts mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are able to perceive human body sweat. Microorganisms that thrive in a moist environment break down fats on the skin. This produces butyric and lactic acid as well as ammonia. The more the body temperature rises, the greater the sweat production and thus the odor intensity increases. Female mosquitoes are magically attracted to this cocktail.

How to protect yourself:

  • shower before going outside
  • do not use heavily perfumed shower gels
  • use unscented curd soap instead
  • wear long, light-colored clothing

What the insects don't like

Like many species, the mosquito is sensitive to certain aromas and essential oils. If you want to enjoy the evening outdoors without being disturbed, you should burn ground coffee in a fireproof bowl. Fragrance lamps with mint and eucalyptus aromas have a good effect in the home. Cedar wood is also suitable for repelling mosquitoes if it is lit and smoked. Lavender bushes or tomato plants help against mosquitoes if you place them on the windowsill.

tips

You can achieve good results with a fan, because the stinging insects can no longer locate the origin of human scents due to the wind.

Do mosquitoes have a purpose?

Insects occupy an important place in the food chain of birds and amphibians. Without mosquitoes, a large proportion of living beings would no longer be able to find enough food. Mosquito populations also balance the populations of their various hosts. The example of invasive species shows rapid spread in habitats in which they are not influenced by native parasites.

Category:

Animals in the garden